UAE solidifies global standing by hosting international sports headquarters

ABU DHABI, 23rd August, 2026 (WAM) -- The United Arab Emirates has firmly established itself as an international hub for hosting the headquarters of regional, continental, and international sports federations. Supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional organisational expertise, and a secure, multicultural environment, the country has become a preferred destination for governing global sports and managing major events across modern and traditional disciplines. This positioning underscores growing international confidence in the UAE, expanding its role from a premier host of world-class events into an active partner shaping the future of global sports governance. The nation hosts a diverse array of major sports governing bodies, including the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation, Ju-Jitsu Asian Union, International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, Asian Paralympic Committee, Asia Rugby, Arab Rugby Federation, Federation of Asian Muaythai Associations, Arab Muaythai Federation, Asian Chess Federation, Arab Chess Federation, Arab Golf Chess Federation, Asian Camel Racing Federation, Arab Minifootball Federation, and Regional Group VII of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI). Sports leadership figures highlighted the strategic impact of this ecosystem on the UAE's international standing. Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Humaid Al Qasimi, President of the Arab Chess Federation, noted that hosting these institutions reflects immense international trust driven by visionary leadership and advanced facilities, reinforcing sport as a key soft-power instrument that promotes tolerance across more than 200 resident nationalities. Qais Abdulla Al Dhalai, President of Asia Rugby and the Arab Rugby Federation, stated that the UAE's operational efficiency and proven reliability under complex global conditions have established the nation as an indispensable partner in international sports management. Majid Al Usaimi, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, emphasised that placing the APC headquarters in Dubai demonstrates the leadership's commitment to empowering people of determination, setting global benchmark standards for adaptive sports management. Sultan Al Yahyai, Head of FEI Regional Group VII, added that decades of cumulative success have cemented the UAE's role as a catalyst for athletic development, leveraging sport to project soft power and expand its diplomatic presence on the world stage. By uniting operational innovation, world-class facilities, and inclusive governance under one umbrella, the UAE continues to redefine its role as a global sporting powerhouse. Hosting these international federations ensures that the nation not only drives athletic excellence today, but also remains at the forefront of shaping the future of global sports diplomacy for generations to come.